The Forte' - Simple, Safe, Reliable
and Compact. A self-contained, four-pad launch controller in a high
impact, water resistant, polypropylene case. These launch
controllers are ideal for rocket clubs, TARC teams, Junior ROTC
corps, and Scout troops that need a durable and reliable launch
system. They will provide
years of safe, dependable service. They are the perfect
complement to
the
Dragonfire
Launch Pads. Three
versions are available, Deluxe, Standard, and Economy. The
control
panel has a water resistant snap down cover. The generous 12" x
6" x 8" internal space allows room to store cords, accessories and a 12
volt lead acid, riding lawn mower battery (not included). All
electrical components, including switches, connectors and wiring, are
rated at 15 amps or higher. All pad positions are individually
selectable. The controller is capable of 4 simultaneous launches
(drag race) or multiple cluster ignition. The built-in continuity
tester draws a maximum of 10 milliamps, safe for all igniters including
ematches, and operates whenever a pad is selected and continuity
exists. The launch button is removable and serves as the safety
interlock. Included with all versions of the Forte' launch
controller are:
1. A 3 foot power supply cord with 50 amp alligator clips for
connection
to either an internal or external 12 volt power supply (battery).
2. Hand-held, push-button
launch
switch rated at 60 amps with a 3 foot connecting cord.
The launch switch is housed in a water resistant casing and protected
with a weatherproof rubber boot.
3. Two pairs of
pad cables with
commercial grade plug, solder-less banana plugs, 8 alligator clips and
Velcro cord ties.
The only thing you need to add is a 12 volt power supply
(battery). You will also need extension cables for the Economy
version only. Both of these items are available at Walmart
and
elsewhere at a modest cost. Parts which require periodic
replacement such as
pad cables and
alligator clips are available
separately (
See below).
Note: This controller has it's limitations. It is designed
primarily for model rockets but may also be used for high power rockets
provided care is taken to ensure enough current reaches the pad to
ignite the motor. Extension cables should be of high quality,
heavy gauge (> 16 ga) wire.
Click on pictures to enlarge

The Controls
Top row - Pad select switches
Left - Continuity and Launch button connector
Right - Pad cable connections
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The controller configured for a launch with internal battery
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The Battery (Not included)
fits inside the controller's box
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Internal Battery connections
50 amp clamps
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The Launch Button (60 amps)
(included with all versions)
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The Pad
Cables
(two sets, enough for 4 pads
included with all versions)
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Large 12" x 6" x 8" interior storage space
12" ruler at the bottom
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Recommended Batteries
(one required, but not included)
Left - Auto Zone $20, Right - Walmart $25
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25', 3 wire 14 ga. Extension Cable
The color and style may vary slightly
(2 included with Standard set) |

50", 3 wire, 14 ga. Extension Cable
The color and style may vary slightly
(2 included in Deluxe set)
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Chrome plated alligator clips
(8 included with Standard and Economy sets)
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Stainless Steel Alligator Clips
Will last a lifetime
(8 included with the Deluxe set)
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Launch Button $25 each
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Pad Cables $20 per set
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Chrome-plated Alligator clips $1 per pair
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Stainless Steel Alligator Clips $2 per pair
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25
foot, 14 ga, 3 wire extension cord $25
each
|
|
50
foot, 14
ga. 3 wire extension cord $45 each
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copyright protected.
Copying, cloning and any other reproduction is strictly prohibited
without permission from
Art Applewhite Rockets
Copyright © 2011